Journal of Economic and Social Measurement - Volume 37, issue 4

Authors: van Tongeren, Jan W. | Magnus, Jan R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: We present a Bayesian estimation method applied to an extended set of national accounts data and estimates of approximately 2500 variables. The method is based on conventional national accounts frameworks as compiled by countries in Central America, in particular Guatemala, …and on concepts that are defined in the international standards of the System of National Accounts. Identities between the variables are exactly satisfied by the estimates. The method uses ratios between the variables as Bayesian conditions, and introduces prior reliabilities of values of basic data and ratios as criteria to adjust these values in order to satisfy the conditions. The paper not only presents estimates and precisions, but also discusses alternative conditions and reliabilities, in order to test the impact of framework assumptions and carry out sensitivity analyses. These tests involve, among others, the impact on Bayesian estimates of limited annual availability of data, of very low reliabilities (close to non-availability) of price indices, of limited availability of important administrative and survey data, and also the impact of aggregation of the basic data. We introduce the concept of 'tentative' estimates that are close to conventional national accounts estimates, in order to establish a close link between the Bayesian estimation approach and conventional national accounting. Show more

Keywords: Macro accounts, system of national accounts, data frameworks, reliability, bayesian estimation, sensitivity analysis, aggregation

DOI: 10.3233/JEM-120360

Citation: Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 277-316, 2012

Authors: Studer, Raphael

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A continuous and a discrete rating scale were implemented for a single item happiness question in a representative online survey. A randomized controlled experiment enables unique analyses on data quality and distributions of happiness scores. The continuous measure is found …to provide more information by overcoming the endpoint aversion present in discrete measurements. Furthermore, findings raise doubts about inferences drawn on correlates of discrete happiness scores. Evidence is provided that the gender happiness inequality depends upon gender specific question design effects. Show more

Keywords: Happiness, subjective well-being, life satisfaction, Likert scale, visual analogue scale, rating scales, gender inequalities, gender gap

DOI: 10.3233/JEM-120364

Citation: Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 317-336, 2012

Authors: Cohen, Steven B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The analytic capacity of surveys can be dramatically enhanced through the linkage to existing secondary data sources at higher levels of aggregation as well as through direct matches to additional health and socio-economic measures acquired for the same set of …sample units from other sources of survey specific or administrative data. In this paper, the capacity of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) to enhance longitudinal analyses focused on mortality studies is discussed. The first set of analyses examines the differentials in pre-dispositional factors that distinguish a representative group of decedents from their surviving counterparts. This is followed by a more extensive model-based study to assess the relationship between antecedent health and health care related factors and mortality. The relationship between medical expenditure levels over time and mortality is also examined to illustrate the enhanced set of longitudinal analyses that are possible through this framework. These longitudinal analyses are based on linkages of the MEPS to the National Health Interview Survey and the National Death Index. Show more

Keywords: Survey integration, MEPS, NHIS, NDI

DOI: 10.3233/JEM-120363

Citation: Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 337-354, 2012

Article Type: Other

Citation: Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 355-355, 2012

Article Type: Other

Citation: Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 357-357, 2012